NM Head Start – Father Involvement

About Fatherhood Programs for Fathers

Fatherhood programs in the US are funded through the federal Office of Family Assistance (OFA) under the Responsible Fatherhood grant program and through state and local initiatives. Programs typically focus on three areas: healthy marriage and relationship skills, responsible parenting, and economic stability (employment and financial literacy). Services often include peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, job training, help navigating child support, and reentry support for formerly incarcerated fathers. Organizations like the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) and Fathers' Rights Movement operate nationally; most states also have dedicated fatherhood coalitions and faith-based organizations running local programs. This directory includes federally-funded Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood (HMRF) grantees, state fatherhood coalitions, and community-based mentorship programs — all open to dads regardless of custody status.

Fatherhood Programs in New Mexico

New Mexico district courts handle divorce and custody in each of its 13 judicial districts. The Child Support Enforcement Division operates under HSD. Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe are the largest cities. New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid organization.

More Fatherhood Programs in New Mexico

• National Fatherhood Initiative – NM Partners — Evidence-based fatherhood programs implemented through New Mexico partner agencies, using NFI curricula like 24/7 Dad and InsideOut Dad. Pro
• YMCA of Central NM – Father Programs — Father-child activities and parenting workshops through the YMCA of Central New Mexico, including swim lessons, sports, and family events th
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Central NM – Dads — After-school and summer programs for children ages 6-18 in central New Mexico, with initiatives promoting father involvement, mentoring, and
• Navajo Nation Fatherhood Programs — Culturally specific fatherhood programs for Navajo families, offered through Navajo Nation divisions of social services and community health
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central NM — Mentorship program matching fathers and other male role models with children and teens across central New Mexico. Dads can enroll their chil
• YDI – Father Engagement Programs — Youth Development Inc. runs programs that encourage involved fatherhood in Albuquerque's South Valley and surrounding neighborhoods, includi

Fatherhood Programs — Common Questions

What do fatherhood programs actually do?

Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.

Who can join? Do I need custody?

Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).

Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?

Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.

How do fatherhood programs help with child support?

Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.